Bruce Watt began as the Director of Recreation for the town of Tolland in the fall of 2014. He said the past six months have been largely occupied by learning the department's systems and processes, as well as Tolland's recreational systems needs and wants.

"I'm trying to go through a full year here, to see how things operate, and get through all the seasons, to see if some things need to be changed up a bit, or if we need to add here or add there," he said. "I'm really trying to get a grasp on where the department is, and where we can move forward."

Watt worked for Vernon as Recreation Supervisor for just over 10 years, and said his current job is quite different.

"There, I was a programmer," he said. "Here, I'm in charge of the whole department, so I oversee the budget, programming, and the whole gamut. It's a lot more responsibility."

He added that Tolland is a smaller community than Vernon, which means a smaller staff, and a lot of planning for himself to do.

Watt, who lives in Ellington with his wife (also a Recreation Supervisor in Vernon) and three daughters, said he'd like to see the department grow, and be able to offer a wider range of programs, and add some more special events.

"I'm very excited to see what comes about in the future here," he said, "and how we can better benefit the community."

Now preparing for summer camp season, Watt said he hopes to add more programming, and building upon the programs already in place.

One new adult program is "Piloxing" which combines Pilates, boxing and dance.

He also hopes to utilize social media, such as Facebook, to keep in better touch with Tolland residents.

Another piece of his job is helping to plan Tolland's 300th anniversary celebration, coming up in September. The event has been in the process of being planned for years, but Watt has had to be a quick study.

"It's pretty exciting," he said. "I know they've been planning this for about five years. I'm trying to grasp everything as quickly as I can for the short amount of time that I've been here."

Watt said the best part of his job has been the people.

"I love working for the town of Tolland," he said. "The people are great and very friendly. It seems like everyone in the community is willing to help out.